How to Get Your Christmas Tree Home without it Fa La La La La-lying Off Your Car
WALNUT CREEK, Calif. (Dec. 9, 2024). Millions of Americans will flock to tree lots across the country in search of the perfect Christmas tree.
Just like moving furniture, appliances or other large objects, transporting a tree is no different. Vehicle damage from an improperly secured tree could cost up to $1,500 to repair scratched paint, torn door seals, or warped window frames.
Losing a Christmas tree on the drive home would no doubt put a damper on the holiday season. But, more importantly, a tree that comes loose could result in an accident or a fine. All 50 states have laws that make it illegal for items to fall from a vehicle while on the road. In California, the fine for an unsecured load is about $200. “Although it may be an annual tradition, transporting a Christmas tree isn’t as easy as you think,” said Todd Burger, Chief Automotive Officer for AAA Northern California. “Every year, drivers damage their cars or break the law by improperly securing their Christmas trees or selecting a tree that would make Clark Griswold jealous.”With a little preparation and the right tools, you can safely transport a Christmas tree with these tips from AAA Northern California:
- Plan Ahead. Make sure to bring strong rope or ratchet straps, an old blanket, gloves and of course – the right vehicle. One with a roof rack is ideal but a pickup truck, SUV, van or minivan can work as well.
- Wrap & Cover It. Once you’ve found the perfect tree, have the lot wrap it in netting before loading it. Loose branches can also be secured with rope or twine to help protect the tree from damage. Prior to loading the tree, cover the roof with a blanket to protect the car from any damage.
- Secure It. Tie down the tree at its bottom, center and top using strong rope or nylon ratchet straps instead of relying on nylon offered by many tree lots. Use fixed vehicle tie-down points and loop the rope or strap around the tree trunk above a branch to prevent any side-to-side or front-to-rear movement.
- Tug Test. Once tied down, give the tree several strong tugs from various angles to make sure it is secured in place and will not come loose.
- Nice & Easy. Drive slowly as higher speeds can create significant airflow that can damage your tree or challenge even the best tie-down methods.
About AAA Northern California
AAA Northern California is a membership and full-service leisure travel organization, proudly serving over 6.7 million Members across Northern California, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Montana, Wyoming, and Alaska. AAA delivers unmatched expertise and value through roadside assistance and electric vehicle (EV) resources, along with comprehensive auto repair, travel, insurance, financial, and home security services. Powered by 5,300 dedicated Team Members, AAA is on a mission to revolutionize solutions that help our Members.